Research published this week by Capacitybuilders highlights the importance of identifying the support needs of third sector organisations through effective diagnosis, and avoiding a 'one-size fits-all' approach to support provision.

The report also highlights the extent to which smaller or newer groups can benefit from more intensive, regular one-to-one support as they develop and grow.

The research report from Shared Intelligence focuses on exploring whether different types of capacity building support tends to be more effective for particular purposes or groups.

It identifies a range of critical factors which contribute to the successful development and growth of smaller third sector organisations:

How effective diagnosis of support needs ensures that the right support is provided at an early stage.

Support providers should look to tailor support to the needs of recipients, rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.

Tailored support does not necessarily have to be on a one-to-one basis. There is evidence to suggest that support can be effectively tailored to a group of recipients with common needs.

The right person or organisation providing the capacity building support appears more important than the model of provision used.

Jon Fox, director of Policy and Programmes at Capacitybuilders, commented: "This research picks up themes that Capacitybuilders wants to explore as we continue to strengthen support available to the third sector.

"Indeed, the level of demand for the first phase of our Real Help for Communities Modernisation Grants Programme demonstrates the extent to which third sector organisations recognise the value of a diagnosis-led approach to support.

"This research further demonstrates the importance of tailoring support to ensure that the needs of frontline groups are effectively identified and met."

In order to read the full report, Testing Different Models of Support and accompanying case studies, please visit: www.improvingsupport.org.uk/evaluationandlearning

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